Safety Trained Supervisor Training and the STS certification are widely respected credentials in the field of occupational health and safety. It is designed for supervisors, managers, and other professionals who are responsible for providing safe work environments and promoting best safety practices within their organizations. Obtaining the STS certification indicates a commitment to workplace safety and a level of expertise that is able to enhance both individual and organizational performance. However, earning the certification is not the end of the journey; maintaining it requires continual learning.
One of the key requirements for maintaining an active STS certification is participation in continuing education. The Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP), which governs the STS credential, mandates that certified individuals engage in professional development activities throughout their certification cycle. This requirement guarantees that STS holders remain up-to-date with the most recent safety standards, regulations, and best practices, which can evolve in response to advancing technologies and emerging risks. Continuing education for STS certification may take various forms.
It may include joining workshops, seminars, webinars, or conferences related to occupational safety and health. Additionally, completing appropriate coursework or training programs, participating in professional safety organizations, or even submitting to publications in the field can count toward continuing education credits. The BCSP provides guidelines on the types of activities that qualify and the number of credits required within each recertification period, typically every five years. Failing to meet the continuing education requirements can have serious consequences for STS certification holders.
If an individual does not accumulate the necessary credits within the designated timeframe, their certification may be suspended or revoked. Therefore, it is important for STS-certified professionals to actively plan and track their continuing education activities, ensuring that they fulfill all recertification obligations. Those who have earned STS certification must participate in continuing education to maintain the validity of their credential. This ongoing commitment helps supervisors stay current in their field and strengthens the importance of the STS certification within the workplace safety community.